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Anzac Day officially commemorates the battle of Gallipoli, but it’s also a day to remember all men and women who have served Australia’s armed forces.

We’ve put together a list of the major commemoration events around the country on 25 April 2012. If you can’t get to any of these ceremonies, check with your local council or nearby visitors centre, as there is sure to be a service near you.

New South Wales

The dawn service in Sydney is for very early risers, starting at 4.15am at Martin Place.

The Anzac Day parade starts at 9am on the corner of Pitt Street and Martin Place, and proceeds down to Elizabeth Street. The parade is always a great experience, especially with little kids.

There are ceremonies throughout the rest of New South Wales, including a dawn service at 5am on Nobby’s Beach in Newcastle, and a 9am service at the cenotaph in Wollongong.

Victoria

The Shrine of Remembrance off St Kilda Road in Melbourne is the focus of the state’s major Anzac Day services.

The dawn service starts at 6am in front of the shrine, but you’ll need to arrive earlier to nab a good spot. Make sure to rug up and bring a thermos to stay warm in what’s predicted to be a chilly autumn morning.

The Anzac Day parade starts at the intersection of Swanston Street and Little Bourke Street at 9am, and proceeds down St Kilda Road towards the shrine.Australian Capital Territory

While the Prime Minister won’t be attending any services in Canberra this year (she’ll be at Gallipoli), the service at the Australian War Memorial is always memorable.

The dawn service starts at 5.30am and goes until 6am. The Australian War Memorial is also the location for the National Anzac Day Ceremony, which starts at 10.30am, with standing room for members of the public.

All members of the public are invited to lay a poppy on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier after the ceremony.